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Tag: Cataract Surgery

Dr. Anthony Roberts, founder and eye physician at Shady Grove Ophthalmology in Maryland, performs such procedures as refractive lens exchange, PRK, and Lasik. A member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Dr. Anthony Roberts possesses more than 20 years of experience and is familiar with treating a variety of conditions, including cataracts.

Cataract surgery is performed by an ophthalmic surgeon or ophthalmologist and is a fairly straightforward procedure. It is usually done while the patient is awake and takes around 30 to 45 minutes to complete. A local anesthetic is applied to the eye to ensure patients do not feel pain during the procedure and patients may also receive medication to help them relax.

Most cataract surgeries use a technique known as phacoemulsification. When using this technique, medical professionals begin the procedure by putting drops in the eye to dilate the pupil. A small cut is then made in the cornea, which is the transparent tissue in the front of the eye. Through this cut, surgeons place a small probe that uses ultrasound waves to break up the affected lens. The lens pieces are then removed and a small plastic lens is put in its place.

The lens may also be removed using an extracapsular cataract extraction technique. With this technique, a large incision is made in the cornea and surgeons remove the front capsule and cloudy portion of the lens using surgical tools. The back capsule of the lens is left intact and supports the artificial lens.

The official ophthalmologist for the Washington Redskins football team, Dr. Anthony Roberts is the founder of Maryland-based Shady Grove Ophthalmology. An eye physician, he provides his patients with a number of treatment options, ranging from comprehensive eye exams to various forms of eye surgery, including LASIK. Among the procedures that Dr. Anthony Roberts provides is cataract surgery.

Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed ophthalmologic procedure in the world, with around 20 million of these surgeries completed each year. Following are three frequently asked questions and answers about what to expect after undergoing cataract surgery.

Q: How long will it take for my vision to be restored after the procedure?

A: Full recovery time varies from one person to another. Some patients will regain their sight the next day, and for others, recovery may take several days, a week, or even a month.

Q: Can patients drive themselves home after cataract surgery?

A: Most professionals recommend that patients arrange to have another person drive them home after the procedure, especially if vision in the unaltered eye is poor. At some ophthalmologic practices, patients are required to have another person transport them home after the procedure.

Q: Do patients have to wear any protective covering over the treated eye?

A: Yes, most doctors will provide patients with a plastic protective shield or patch to wear over their eye after surgery. They will protect the eye from being accidentally bumped or rubbed, which can cause enough pressure to open the surgical incision.